The launch of 5G and the further implementation of the Internet of Things (IoT) will create high demand for cables, according to Prysmian Group's Multimedia Solutions BU (MMS). MMS, with its fibre and copper data transmission cables, is well positioned to be a leading player in the growing market for indoor and private networks.
"Prysmian Group's Multimedia Solutions business is positioning itself to be ready for the new markets created by the demand for communication cables as fifth generation or 5G services are rolled out," says Llyr Roberts, Global Vice President of the Multimedia Solutions BU. As the world's largest manufacturer of telecommunications cables, Prysmian Group clearly sees the opportunities in 5G technology.
Because the 5G "wireless" network relies heavily on fibre and other cables as a backbone, it is in fact not wireless at all. Strictly speaking, these networks are the key to unlocking the potential of 5G technology. "The Internet of Things is also creating a new growing market, although it is too early to translate this opportunity into hard numbers," Roberts continues. "As one of our focus areas, we are ensuring that we have state-of-the-art products and solutions that are operationally ready to capitalise on 5G," says Roberts. "One of the key trends in the industry is the migration to products that can support higher data rates as more and more information is transmitted globally. We are on a path that is strongly linked to high performance products," he continues. Such products in an exploding market are expected to provide revenue growth while increasing the profitability of the business unit.
Thecourse is set for growth
Due to the increasing demand for data and the transition to higher bandwidths, the Multimedia Solutions BU expects an increase in sales figures. In 2018, the business unit recorded double-digit growth and generated around 30 per cent of the Prysmian Group's revenue in the telecommunications sector, equivalent to a value of €1.63 billion. For 2019, the company forecasts a further increase.
MMS produces fibre optic and copper data communication cables for fixed and mobile applications worldwide. The cable specialist sells its products through distributors, value-added resellers and system integrators. Data centres, public buildings and facilities (hospitals, stadiums, airports, universities), private households and factories are equipped with cables from the business unit. The portfolio of the Multimedia Solutions BU also offers products for the introduction of 5G communication. With the acquisition of General Cable in 2018, the Multimedia Solution business unit has almost doubled in size.